Ham radios (also known as amateur radios) bring excellent non-commercial radio communication to vehicles such as Jeeps. Whether you need them for exchanging messages, radiosport, or emergency contact purposes, there are many great choices on Amazon.
We’ve gathered our pick of the top 8 best ham radios for Jeeps in 2022. Keep reading to explore how they compare, considering highlighted features, benefits, and pros/cons.
Best Ham Radio for Jeep 2022 Choices – Our Top 8 Picks
When looking for a ham radio, there are a few factors to consider in your search. Namely, you want to keep an eye out for radios that have a high wattage (power output), as this determines how far the range is. You also want to find radios with a solid battery-source and a decent battery life.
It’s also important to choose a ham radio that features emergency channels, such as access to NOAA alerts and more. Furthermore, you want something small, compact, and lightweight that you can easily keep in your Jeep when driving. It’s an added perk if the radio is water-resistant or dust/dirt-resistant.
You don’t want to neglect to do your research before choosing a radio. That’s why we’ve compiled our top picks that factor in all of these considerations.
Today, we’ll highlight the best that these 8 amateur radios have to offer Jeep drivers:
- BaoFeng UV-82HP High-Power Amateur Two-Way Radio
- Yaesu FTM-400DR/XDR Dual-Band Analog Digital Mobile Transceiver System
- Kenwood TM-D710G 2m/70cm Mobile Amateur Radio
- BTECH UV-50X2 Mobile Amateur Dual Band Base Radio
- Mirkit Baofeng Pack of 4 Ham Radios UV 5R MK5
- Radioddity GA-510 Dual Band Handheld Ham Radio
- BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Amateur (Ham) Radio
- Airiton/Baofeng UV-9R Plus Portable Ham (Amateur) Radio
1. BaoFeng UV-82HP High-Power Amateur Two-Way Radio
This BaoFeng UV-82HP Dual Band Amateur Radio combines several unique features for a great driving option. Jeep drivers can easily use this amateur radio to communicate in group drives and rely on it in emergencies. It measures at 8.1 x 2.5 x 7 inches and weighs just over one pound for ultimate portability.
Key Features
Some of the highlights of this radio include customizable operations with programmable buttons and channels, as well as varying power levels. It features two types of channel spacing – 12.5KHz narrow band or 25KHz wideband. It’s battery-powered with one lithium ion battery (1800 mAh), which is included in your purchase.
The radio comes in five different colors, including blue, red, yellow, black, and a camo design.
It also features:
- A tri-color display
- 136-174mhz (VHF), 400-520mhz
- SMA-female antenna connector
- Dual push-to-talk switch that you can synchronize with software
- An included high gain V-85 antenna
- Fully compatible with all UV-82 accessories
- An included detailed user guide
Benefits
Aside from the main radio features, the UV-82 also includes an FM radio for listening, a flashlight, an emergency alarm, and compatibility with external accessories.
This ham radio is waterproof and can withstand temperatures of -20 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it an ideal choice for adventurous Jeep drivers who explore even in extreme conditions.
Pros and Cons
Some advantages of this radio include:
- 128 programmable memory channels with alphanumeric names
- 8 watt power maximum
- Louder speaker than previous BaoFeng models (1 watt)
- Larger buttons than previous BaoFeng models
- You can use it to listen to broadcast NOAA Weather updates
Keep in mind that there are some downsides to this radio, including:
- This particular radio is not FCC approved in the United States
- Doesn’t easily stand upright on its own
- Slow scanning mode that isn’t as practical as other radios
- Radio doesn’t have a pager alert feature and cannot be programmed to decode fire/EMS dispatch tones
2. Yaesu FTM-400DR/XDR Dual-Band Analog Digital Mobile Transceiver System
This black amateur radio transceiver system measures 4.9 x 5.5 x 1.6 inches and weighs just 2.64 pounds. It’s one of Yaesu System’s Fusion Dual Mode Systems (C4FM).
It works well for monitoring both VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra high frequency) radio frequencies. Although this ham radio is on the expensive end of similar products ($659.95), it provides functions that others do not.
Key Features
The FTM-400 XDR is a technological improvement from the FTM-400 DR in that it utilizes C4FM and FDMA. This radio’s technology has a lower bit error rate for more stable communications and fewer interruptions while moving.
- 144/430MHz
- 50 W power output
- Dimmable screen light
- Touch screen interface
- Advanced APRS messaging system
- Bluetooth
- Color display
- Programmable with a SIM card
Benefits
One of the key features of this ham radio is that it has APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System). The benefits of an APR system include real-time, local digital communications. Aside from GPS information, you get insight into announcements, search and rescue data, object tracking, and more. This is something that sets this radio apart from others on the amateur radio market.
Because of the APRS, you get a built-in and improved GPS receiver. This function reduces the GPS TTF to quicken telemetry and navigation. Jeep lovers also get the benefit of receiving local NOAA station weather broadcasts to stay prepared in all elements.
Additionally, Yaesu offers its own memory software, included in your radio purchase.
Pros and Cons
Some of the key pros of this radio include:
- The most recent GPS technology for optimal speed and accuracy with the satellite searching function
- Connects directly to a PC with included cable
- You can run the APRS at the same time you use voice communications
- You can monitor multiple frequencies at the same time
- Easy for beginners to program and use
Downsides of this amateur radio include:
- You must buy a dashboard mount separately
- It’s not budget-friendly
- Price on Amazon is marked up compared to other retailers
3. Kenwood TM-D710G 2m/70cm Mobile Amateur Radio
The Kenwood TM-D710G Amateur Radio has the specific distinction of being very GPS-friendly and APRS-friendly. As you trek in your Jeep, navigation is not an issue, and you can easily access locational information.
You get a liquid crystal display for each key with an LCD-backlit color display (green or amber color). You also get two display stands included.
Key Features
The Kenwood amateur radio is equipped with a lot of functions that make Jeep trekking more efficient, safe, and enjoyable.
- 50 W power output
- TX Band A ; B (144 ~ 148MHz, 430 ~ 450MHz), RX Band A (118 ~ 524MHz), RX Band B (136 ~ 524MHz, 800 ~ 1300MHz)
- Equipped with a multifunctional GPS unit
- Automatic time adjustment via GPS unit’s on-board clocks
- Equipped with a multifunctional APRS system that doesn’t require a PC
- One-touch setting to easily change frequency with QSY
- EchoLink Sysop mode function for operating node terminals
- EchoLink Memory stores node numbers, call-signs, and control commands (up to 10 memories)
- Receive dual wave (VxV, UxU) on the same band
- Voice guidance-enabled
Benefits
The GPS system multiplies benefits by also providing Mark Waypoint, Target Point, GPS Logger, and automatic time correction functions. Further, the GPS Logger function stores up to 5,000 points of positional information, which you can convert to Google Earth map service-compliant kml files.
The Target Point Function holds up to 5 presets that get displayed in real-time. The Mark Waypoint function holds up to 100 records, including altitude, latitude, etc. You even get a Grid Square Locator Display for your own location.
In terms of the APRS, take advantage of messaging functions, positional information, weather information, QSY function, SmartBeaconing, APRS lock function, Stand-Alone Digipeater function, and a station list.
Pros and Cons
Some of the pros of this radio include:
- Up to 100 stations including base, mobile, weather, and object stations
- Ability to filter and sort stations
- Ability to send and receive messages between other APRS-stations with auto-reply and set-message functions
- Weather info includes temperatures, wind direction, wind speed, rainfall, humidity, and atmospheric pressure measurements
- APRS lock function limits errors during operation
This is a great ham radio, but there are a few downsides to consider:
- Not touch screen-enabled
- Doesn’t withstand extreme cold compared to other radios (-4 degrees F to +140 degrees F)
4. BTECH UV-50X2 Mobile Amateur Dual Band Base Radio
This BTECH amateur radio is a decent option for Jeep trekkers in search of a ham radio. It allows users to edit channels on the go and set up calling methods via group tones (CTCSS, 2Tone, 5Tone, DCS, and DTMF).
Key Features
Some of the key features of this radio include:
- Mic audio gain settings
- Dual synchronize display mode
- Auto power-off feature
- Channel mode editing settings
- Auto-scan function
- Variable frequency scanning
- Privacy mode
- High, low power settings of 50W/10W
- Frequency range of VHF at 144-148 MHz (Rx/Tx)
- Frequency range of UHF at 420-450 MHz (Rx/Tx)
- FM range of 87.5-108 MHz
- 2 W speaker output
- Choice of broadband or narrowband
- Expanded Frequency Range (up to 520MHz)
Benefits
What’s nice about this radio kit is that it includes the radio, a DC cable, a speaker mic, mounting hardware, a user guide, and radio and mic brackets.
You also get a quality display with the multi-color LCD screen that is customizable. You can also customize your channels to display frequency settings. Additionally, within the radio, you can keep up to 200 programmable memory channels and easily add or remove them.
Another benefit is that the radio is PC-programmable and has several new scanning modes including scanning resume, auto scan, and variable frequency scanning. Further, the quad watch delay time setting lets you keep the receiver on the secondary channel after incoming transmission (up to 50 seconds).
Pros and Cons
There are a lot of advantages to choosing this radio, including:
- You can easily program from a PC to set-up the radio to operate exactly as needed.
- Easy to set up and install
- Budget-friendly
- High-quality sound output and customizable mic
- Auto power off function helps to maintain battery life
Cons of this radio include:
- You need to buy some accessories separately (antenna, computer cable, etc.)
- Doesn’t include GPS or APRS functionality
- Doesn’t have a touch screen interface
- Not as lightweight or portable as other ham radios
5. Mirkit Baofeng Pack of 4 Ham Radios UV 5R MK5
Obviously, what sets this amateur radio apart from the others is that it’s a multi-pack of four radios. You get more bang for your buck and some exciting features. Along with your four UV-5R MK5 amateur radios, you also receive four each: Li-ion batteries, earphone mic/headsets, antennae, belt clips, manuals, desktop chargers (100V-240V), adapters, and lanyards. You also receive a Baofeng cable for programming long range.
Key Features
These radios have a maximum of 8 W of power output and each take one 1800 mAh Lithium-ion battery. They’re incredibly lightweight and portable, making them a great Jeep off-road trekker choice. These radios have large LCD display screens for easy use and helpful functions like battery saver mode, low battery alerts, timeout timer, and keypad lock. Additionally, you get access to:
- 128 different channels
- Switch between dual-band display, dual-standby, and dual frequency display
- Frequency range VHF/UHF: 144-148 mhz / 420-450 mhz
- Burst tone of 1750Hz
- FM radio function
- An emergency radio function
- 50 CTCSS and 104 CDCSS
- LED flashlight function
- Built-in VOX Function
- Switch between high/medium/low RF power
- Channel monitoring
- Roger set
- Channel Step: 2.5 /5 /6.25 /10 /12.5 /25
Further, these radios meet part 15 and part 97 standards stated in the FCC Rules.
Benefits
Since this is a multi-pack, this product is an ideal choice for Jeepers who want to travel and explore in groups. You also can feel safe and assured when using them since they provide access to multiple emergency channels and land/sea amateur channels.
Pros and Cons
Pros of these radios include:
- Very durable and long-lasting
- High wattage output
- Budget-friendly
- Lots of extra features/functions
- Easy-to-operate buttons (call, PTT key, MONI)
Cons of these radios include:
- You have to program certain channels to get access to them
- Limited screen/display
- Has a limited range
6. Radioddity GA-510 Dual Band Handheld Ham Radio
In this radio kit, you get a high-quality GA-510 ham radio suited for emergency/survival and explorative situations that Jeep-trekkers frequent. You also get access to a dual band antenna, battery charger, adapter, programming cable, belt clip, wrist strap, and earpiece.
Key Features
This radio has a maximum wattage of 10 W (high power mode) but also features medium and low power settings (5 W and 1 W respectively). It uses two 2200 mAh rechargeable batteries for a maximum of 96 hours of battery life on standby. You also get 12 hours of working battery life on high power and 24 hours of working battery life on low/medium power.
Other highlighted features include:
- UHF/VHF frequency range: 144-148MHz, 420-450MHz
- 50 Ohm impedance
- Frequency stability: ±2.5ppm
- Duty cycle: 03/03/54 min. (Rx/Tx/Standby)
- Broadcasts FM channels
- 128 memory channels
- SMA-female antenna
- Power/volume control knob
- Switch between dual band, dual watch, and dual display
- LCD display
- PC- or keypad-programmable
- 3 scanning options: carrier scanning, time scanning, and search scanning
Benefits
Some of the aspects of this radio that benefit Jeep trekkers include the SOS button and lightweight portability. You can truly take this radio on the road and rely on it in many situations. It also has a useful keypad that includes a menu function so you can easily navigate the display screen.
Pros and Cons
Pros of this radio include:
- Waterproof water-resistance level
- Long communication range
- Decent battery life
- Budget-friendly for amateur radio users
- Comes with a helpful user manual
- Can operate in temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
- Set channel names up to 10 characters long
Cons of this radio include:
- Very small display screen
- Left/right arrow keys are non-functional
- Does not withstand extremely cold temperatures like other ham radios do
7. BTECH UV-5X3 Tri-Band Amateur (Ham) Radio
This VHF/UHF amateur radio from BTECH comes with a V85 dual band antenna, earpiece, CH-5 charger, 220 antenna, CH-5 110 V adapter, and other accessories. It’s a lightweight and portable ham radio that makes a good addition for Jeep trekkers. The large selection of channels, along with the functions and features of this radio, make it an excellent choice to take on the road.
Key Features
With this BTECH radio, you get a 5 W output with:
- 128 different channels
- Frequency range: 144/220/430 MHz
- One 1500mAh battery
- PC-programmable with CHIRP software (cord sold separately)
- Stun, kill, revive, inspect, and monitor functions
- Add or remove channels from scanning
- VOX talk around mode
- Squelch tail elimination
- Alpha numeric channel storage
- Busy channel lock-out function
- Frequency reverse function
- Transmission timeout function
Benefits
You also get access to remote commands, updated scanning functions, and synchronized display with this radio. Additionally, the radio features new ANI updates and remote commands. It supports various service calling methods, including DCS, CTCSS, Tone Burst, as well as DTMFs.
It’s also nice that this radio comes complete with the battery and charger, as well as the earpiece and basic accessories you need for use. Furthermore, the water-resistant rating makes the radio ideal for exploring off-road situations.
Pros and Cons
Pros of this radio include:
- Waterproof water-resistance level
- Includes a wrist strap and belt clip
- Comes with a handy user manual
- Programming software works on both PCs and Macs
Cons of this radio include:
- Most accessories come separately (like the recommended Nagoya NA-320A Antenna)
- You only get 2 different power levels
- Wattage is not that high compared to other ham radios
- Display screen is very small and holds limited room for text
- Low power output setting is just 1 W
8. Airiton/Baofeng UV-9R Plus Portable Ham (Amateur) Radio
Your purchase of this Airiton x Baofeng UV-9R ham radio includes two antennas, a speaker mic, chargers, a belt clip, a sling, a battery pack, and a programming cable. It also comes with a user manual to make setup a breeze.
Key Features
This black, 8 W portable radio has a high power output. It also features a dustproof and waterproof design, making it distinct from other ham radios on this list. Some of the other key features include:
- VHF/UHF frequency range: 130-176mhz and 400-520 mhz
- FM radio function to listen to broadcast stations and music
- VOX function for hands-free mode
- 2200mAh Lithium-ion battery-operated
- 50 CTCSS codes and 104 DCS codes
- DTMF codes
- ANI function
- Handheld speaker mic
- U/V cross-band dual watch
- Relay forwarding confirmed (1750 HZ)
- Switch between dual band, dual standby, and dual display
- High and low power settings
- Battery saver mode
- Switch between wideband and narrowband
Benefits
One benefit of this radio is its durability and suitability for harsher environments. You can take it off-road trekking, even in the rain, since its IP67 rating makes it safe to use under even one meter of water for a half-hour.
You also get versatility in the two antennae options – the 771 soft antenna for increasing distance and the 805 mini-antenna for portability purposes. Furthermore, it’s helpful in emergencies and off-road scenarios since it has an emergency alarm, low battery warning, and other features.
Pros and Cons
Pros of this radio include:
- A strong dual frequency range
- Comes with a PC/Mac programming cable to set up your channels with CHIRP
- Strong battery life (battery included with radio)
- Auto-backlight for easy screen display viewing
- Voice prompt function
- Auto-keypad lock function
Cons of this radio include:
- It’s a bit heavier compared to other portable two-way ham radios
- Screen is small and hard to view
Final Thoughts
When looking for an ideal ham radio for Jeep trekking, you want something that is portable, durable, and has a good frequency range.
It’s also helpful if the radio has added functions, such as FM channels, emergency and weather channels, and built-in flashlights or SOS functions.
The above eight radios are great options for Jeep owners who want to use amateur radios for communication and safety.
We find that some of the budget options aren’t necessarily as well-equipped as the more expensive options. Therefore, we recommend choosing a radio based on your communication needs, rather than the price alone. Hopefully, our list has given you a good place to start in your search for a ham radio for your Jeep!
